Olivier Nkamhoua Not Transferring, Intends To Enter NBA Draft
The player movement period is always confusing, but sports media got thrown for a loop on Friday. Mike Wilson of the Knoxville Sentinel reported on Thursday that former Tennessee forward Olivier Nkamhoua was entering the transfer portal and exercising an additional season of eligibility at a new destination. However, a conflicting report from ESPN's Jeff Borzello confirmed that Nkamhoua will now declare for the NBA Draft.
Nkamhoua averaged 10.8 points, five rebounds, and two assists this season. He logged 27 points and five rebounds against the Blue Devils, delivering some impressive offensive moments. It seemed he was primed to take a big leap in 2023, and he still may, but he won't be doing it in Tennessee's orange and white.
Olivier Nkamhoua, Tennessee F
The Vols got a bunch of different contributions from their forwards this season. Senior Josiah Jordan-James dealt with injuries and was in and out of the lineup, but he was an effective two-way player on the court. Furthermore, five-star freshman Julian Phillips flashed signs of becoming an effective player during long spurts this year.
Jordan-James still has his Covid-waiver left after the 2020 campaign, and with Nkamhoua entering the transfer portal, the coaching staff may urge him to exercise it. He's projected as a second-round pick in the NBA Draft, meaning another season in Knoxville could be needed. Phillips also has a decision to make; he didn't have a first-round caliber season but has the tools to either become a second-round NBA Draft pick now or develop and potentially become a lottery pick down the road.
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